Our Lineage & Teachers
More than two millennia ago, Buddha Shakyamuni imparted the profound wisdom of enlightenment. His teachings radiated across the vast expanse of ancient India, igniting minds and hearts with the wisdom of liberation. In the wake of his physical departure, the teachings continued to flourish, permeating the fabric of Indian society and eventually transcending its borders to permeate Asia.
Among these lands, Tibet stands out for its unparalleled practice and preservation of the Buddha’s teachings. The diverse tapestry of Buddhist traditions found a home in Tibet, where they were not merely adopted, but cherished. Across generations, Tibetans meticulously safeguarded and perpetuated these teachings, ensuring their preservation for posterity. Through the dedication of the Tibetan people, the teachings of the Buddha continued to bestow happiness, well-being, and liberation upon those who embraced them in practice.
Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche
Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche was born in 1951 as the eldest son of Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche. He has served as the abbot of Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery since its inauguration in 1976. Overseeing both the monastery and its affiliate institutions, Rinpoche is responsible for the personal welfare and spiritual education of nearly 500 monks and nuns. Rinpoche is a renowned meditation master and teacher. For over 35 years he has taught audiences in Nepal and around the world. He is the founder and head of a global network of Buddhist centers dedicated to study, practice, and social work.
Phakchok Rinpoche
Born in 1981, Phakchok Rinpoche is the grandson of Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche and the oldest son of Tsikey Chokling Rinpoche. As a small boy, he was recognized as a highly realized tulku of the Taklung Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. In 2004, Phakchok Rinpoche completed many years of advanced Buddhist studies and received his khenpo degree from the Dzongsar Shedra in India. Thereafter, whenever his busy schedule allowed, Phakchok Rinpoche taught at Rangjung Yeshe Institute’s international shedra. He now has monasteries and Dharma centres both globally and in Nepal. Rinpoche travels the world to give Buddhist teachings, grant initiations, and oversee his Dharma-related projects.
Read more about Phakchok Rinpoche
Tulku Urgyen Yangsi Rinpoche
Born in August, 2001, Tulku Urgyen Yangsi Rinpoche was enthroned at the age of seven in Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery in Boudhanath by Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche on Lhabab Duchen in November, 2008.
Tulku Urgyen Yangsi Rinpoche currently resides at Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery, often presiding over the monasteries large pujas and ritual practices.
Lama Tsultrim Sangpo
Lama Tsultrim Sangpo is a senior monk at Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling and Gomde California’s resident teacher during the summer months. He was born in Nubri, Nepal, close to the border of Tibet. When he was twelve, Lama Tsultrim moved to Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling, where he subsequently studied until the age of 29—after which he began a traditional 3-year-retreat at Asura Cave retreat center in Pharping, Nepal. Since the completion of his retreat, Lama has resided at Ka-Nying Shedrub monastery, teaching and serving as the main chant leader for rituals during the winter season.